Fathers and Children

Set against the rolling estates and bustling salons of 1860s Russia, the story follows a widowed landowner and his restless son, whose fierce belief in scientific rationalism and radical change puts them at odds with the values of the older generation. Through family gatherings, hunting trips, and heated debates, the novel paints a vivid picture of a society caught between entrenched traditions and the restless energy of a new, questioning youth.

Turgenev’s prose is spare yet lyrical, drawing listeners into the intimate struggles of characters who wrestle with love, ambition, and a sense of purpose that often feels out of reach. The narrative captures the melancholy of a world in transition, offering keen insight into the human heart while leaving the outcome of each conflict delicately unresolved. This first act sets the stage for a thoughtful exploration of generational tension and the search for meaning in a rapidly changing Russia.